MU Sociology Cohabitation Being Harmful or Helpful Paper

Let’s think and talk about the trend of cohabitation. While for many the trend of cohabitation is something quite normal and encouraged and something some of you are and will participate in, for others and even in academic circles there are still considerations and caution. Thus, we are having a conversation…

First, review chapter 6 and at least TWO of the following listed articles of your choosing that you will need to incorporate and use in your post (for a total of three resources). You are also free and encouraged to do your research and include other sources ( remember to cite and make sure they are credible sources) to the two required from the list below and the chapter:

The Atlantic: The Marriage Problem: Why Many Are Choosing Cohabitation Instead

Time: How shacking up before marriage affects a relationship’s success

Psychology Today: Should you move in together or not? 

The Atlantic: The Science of Cohabitation: A Step Toward Marriage, Not a Rebellion

Institute for Family Studies: Cohabitation is Pervasive

Based on your review of chapter 6 (and even other chapters of our text that include cohabitation), the articles you chose and thinking over your observations and maybe experience…

Part A:

What are your views and perspective concerning cohabitation, and why it has become so normative (what has changed?) from your perspective based on the chapter readings and chosen articles?

Discuss what you learned and what stood out to you from the two resources you chose and the chapter (please remember to provide multiple points from each article).

Based on your resources and the chapter, in what ways can cohabitation be helpful or harmful, or both? 

Be sure to discuss/apply the articles you chose and the chapter to support and explain your conclusions

Part B:

Based on what you have learned from the research, any personal experience/observations, beliefs/values, and the resources you chose about cohabitation, what would you share and advise a friend who is considering cohabiting with their partner and comes to you for your thoughts as they contemplate this very important decision? This is a very important decision and should be made with understanding and wisdom. Course Application is expected in your response.

As indicated in the articles and chapter, consider the following areas to bring up and share with a friend as your feelings and beliefs about cohabitation, finances, the future of the relationship, motivation and reason to move in together, family and friends’ views, religious beliefs, social time and leisure activities, what are the non-negotiables, chores, hobbies, pet peeves, pets, what happens if someone wants out, renting versus buying, purchases (shared or buy things separately), should they create a cohabitation contract, potential pregnancy, etc.